UNION FOR THE MEDITERRANEAN
In the fall of 2015, I studied abroad in Barcelona. My program was taught as a collaboration between USC and the Escola Tècnica Superior d’Arquitectura La Salle. Our final project was to design the headquarters for the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), an intergovernmental organization consisting of members states from Europe and other countries around the Mediterranean.
We had to choose a site in the Poble-sec neighborhood of Barcelona. This neighborhood has traditionally been lower-income, and in recent decades it has become a home to immigrants from many countries. I sought to create a landmark building that would feature many public areas for both local residents and officials to enjoy together.
Section perspective of the Union for the Mediterranean Headquarters building. The El Poble-Sec neighborhood, with its iconic Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies (Gardens of the Three Chimneys), can be seen in the background.
The diversity of the neighborhood is a microcosm of the diversity of the member states of the UfM, and the building itself will be a symbol of inclusion. The public spaces—open to both locals and organization officials—will increase chances for interaction and remind officials of the diverse population they are serving.
PROJECT
Union for the Mediterranean Headquarters
LOCATION
Barcelona
SCHOOLS
USC School of Architecture
Escola Tècnica Superior d’Arquitectura La Salle
CLASS
Architectural Design IV (Arch 402a)
SEMESTER
Fall 2015
INSTRUCTORS
Eugeni Bach
Roger Paez